Is Sports Betting Legal in Maryland?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Maryland. Voters approved it in November 2020, and Governor Larry Hogan signed HB 940 into law in May 2021, officially legalizing it. Retail sportsbooks opened in December 2021, while online sports betting launched in November 2022.
History of Sports Betting Legislation in Maryland
The road to legal sports betting in Maryland was a multi-year process, culminating in its launch in late 2021. Here's a brief timeline⁚
- May 2018⁚ The Supreme Court strikes down PASPA, paving the way for states to legalize sports betting.
- 2019-2020⁚ Maryland lawmakers introduce various sports betting bills, but none gain enough traction to pass.
- November 2020⁚ Maryland voters overwhelmingly approve a referendum to legalize sports betting, with the question of whether to allow online wagering left to the legislature.
- April 2021⁚ The Maryland General Assembly passes HB 940, a comprehensive bill legalizing both retail and online sports betting.
- May 2021⁚ Governor Larry Hogan signs HB 940 into law, officially legalizing sports betting in Maryland.
- December 2021⁚ The first retail sportsbooks open their doors in Maryland.
- November 2022⁚ After months of regulatory hurdles and licensing approvals, online sports betting officially launches in Maryland.
The legalization process wasn't without its challenges. Lawmakers grappled with issues like licensing fees, tax rates, and which entities could offer sports betting. Ultimately, Maryland opted for a competitive market, allowing for a variety of operators and betting options. This approach has led to a thriving industry that continues to grow and generate revenue for the state.
Types of Sports Betting Allowed in Maryland
Maryland offers a comprehensive sports betting experience, encompassing a wide array of betting options for sports enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular types of sports bets available in the state⁚
- Moneyline⁚ This is the simplest form of betting, where you pick the winner of a game or event outright.
- Point Spread⁚ This involves betting on the margin of victory. The sportsbook assigns a point spread to even out the odds, and you bet on whether a team will win or lose by more or less than that spread.
- Over/Under (Totals)⁚ You bet on whether the combined score of both teams in a game will be over or under a predetermined number set by the sportsbook.
- Parlays⁚ Combining multiple bets into a single wager, with the potential for higher payouts but also increased risk, as all selections must win for the parlay to be successful.
- Futures⁚ Wagers placed on events that will be determined in the future, such as who will win a championship or a team's regular season win total.
- Prop Bets⁚ These bets focus on specific events or occurrences within a game, such as the first team to score or the number of touchdowns by a particular player.
- Live Betting (In-Game Betting)⁚ This allows you to place wagers on games that are already in progress, with odds constantly adjusting based on the live action.
Maryland law permits betting on a vast range of professional and collegiate sports, both domestic and international. However, wagering on in-state college teams is currently prohibited, with the exception of tournaments like March Madness.
Where to Place Sports Bets in Maryland
Maryland offers a variety of options for placing sports bets, both in-person and online⁚
Retail Sportsbooks⁚
You can visit physical sportsbooks located within licensed facilities across the state⁚
- Casinos⁚ All six Maryland casinos operate retail sportsbooks, offering dedicated spaces with betting windows, kiosks, and comfortable viewing areas.
- Sports Stadiums⁚ Home to major league teams, stadiums like FedExField (Washington Commanders) and M&T Bank Stadium (Baltimore Ravens) also house retail sportsbooks.
- Horse Racing Tracks⁚ Some racetracks, such as Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course, have integrated sports betting into their facilities.
Online Sportsbooks⁚
Maryland has a robust mobile sports betting market with numerous licensed online sportsbooks⁚
- Popular Options⁚ BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, FanDuel, DraftKings, BetRivers, and PointsBet are among the prominent players.
- Local Brands⁚ Maryland also features homegrown sportsbooks like Crab Sports and LetsBetMD.
- Accessibility⁚ Online sportsbooks allow you to place bets conveniently from your computer or mobile device, anywhere within Maryland state lines.
Whether you prefer the atmosphere of a physical sportsbook or the convenience of online platforms, Maryland provides a diverse and accessible landscape for sports bettors.
Responsible Gambling Resources in Maryland
Maryland is committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and providing resources for individuals who may need assistance. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, the following resources are available⁚
Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling⁚
This organization, managed by the Maryland Department of Health, offers a range of services including⁚
- 24/7 Helpline⁚ Confidential support and referrals are available by phone or text at 1-800-GAMBLER.
- Treatment Programs⁚ The Center connects individuals with licensed therapists specializing in gambling addiction treatment.
- Self-Assessment Tools⁚ Online resources and screening tools help assess gambling habits and identify potential risks.
Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission (MLGCC)⁚
The MLGCC, responsible for regulating gambling in the state, emphasizes responsible gaming through⁚
- Voluntary Exclusion Program⁚ Allows individuals to self-exclude from casinos and sportsbooks for a set period.
- Responsible Gaming Information⁚ Provides educational materials and resources on its website and at licensed gambling facilities.
Other Resources⁚
- Gamblers Anonymous⁚ Offers support groups and resources for individuals seeking peer support in their recovery.
- National Council on Problem Gambling⁚ Provides national resources, including a helpline (1-800-522-4700) and online chat support.
Remember, responsible gambling starts with setting limits, understanding the risks, and seeking help when needed. These resources are here to support you.
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